The benevolent monarch p.3
is th T t R ou SE ck IN he E C RE F
Hearts of service p.8
Wills, inheritance and succession p.4
Bulalacao bliss p.6
DOT special supplement on medical tourism
Vol. 5 No.14 Q1 2016 Philippine Edition ISSN No.
The lifeblood of a nation
OFWs continue to send their remittance dollars in record amounts to their families in the Philippines, but as Johnna Villaviray Giolagon writes, it comes at a great social cost. Turn to page 2
Filipina overseas workers wait for their luggage as they arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Photo from lakwatsangpinay.wordpress.com, used with permission
www.theimmigrant.com.ph
The Lifeblood...
or security problems elsewhere in the world. The relative comfort of life in the islands stays about the same even if From page 1 one region in the world descends to instability. *Note: The names of OFWs interviewed for this article have been changed to Of the total amount of remittances sent to the Philippines, protect their privacy. at least Php 173.2 billion, or roughly US$ 3.685 billion, come from 2.3 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), un, 46 years old, has been working as a seaman for a according to a study by the Philippine Statistical Authority cargo ship since 1995.As a cadet then, he received a (PSA) conducted from April to September 2014. The PSA measly US$ 250 (about Php 11,750; US$ 1=Php 47) a study showed that OFW remittances for 2013 and 2014 month in allowance. Now a second mate, he receives comprised more than 70 percent of the total remittances US$ 370 (Php 17,390) a day for the duration of his threesent home by Filipinos doing contractual work abroad, like month contract.His salary might have changed, but the Jun. But unlike Jun, majority of these OFWs are unskilled purpose for his 12-hour workdays remained the same: to laborers that comprise the biggest occupation group at 32.8 earn enough to send home to his family in the Philippines. percent. One in every three OFWs is an unskilled worker, Some 80 percent of Jun’s salary is directly remitted to the and a little more than half of these Filipino laborers overseas Philippines, contributing to the over US$ 28.5 billion (Php are women. 1,339.5 trillion) sent home by the country’s 10.2 million Mari, 32 years old, has been working as a domestic overseas population as of December 2015 data by the worker in Singapore for six years. Of the Php 15,000 a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). month she earns, 80 percent is sent home Jun’s remittance is a drop in the remittance company to pay for daily bucket, albeit a crucial one.His wife Yani “The Filipinos via and school expenses of her two children is suffering from a degenerative spinal are in demand left behind in Toledo City, Cebu Province. ailment that sends her into an abyss of pain “It’s not enough,” Mari admits, but noted several times a day, sometimes for days at a all over the it’s still better than being unemployed time.“For my medical needs alone, I don’t world basically. that as she was in the Philippines. Singapore is think he will be able to earn enough here And, even as third after Saudi Arabia and the United Arab for our needs,” Yani acknowledged. “If we rely on local salary available, we cannot the world goes Emirates as the top destination of OFWs. fact, OFWs in Asia have sent home the pay everything.” Yani’s medicines set the to shocks, you’ll In “biggest cash remittance in 2014, totaling couple back at least Php 25,000 a month. see that Filipinos to Php 92.6 billion (US$ 1.97 billion),” the Add additional expenses – like house and car amortization at Php 21,000 plus other keep on being PSA study showed. As it is, the services provided by OFWs incidentals – they would need around hired.” ranks among the country’s top exports. And Php 60,000 a month to cover basic living while the benefits are obvious, the risks are expenses. as apparent. Apart from a family torn apart by distance, the Yani said it would be ideal for Jun to find employment employment of millions of Filipinos is dependent on the in the Philippines so they could spend more time together, capability of host countries. Recently, several thousand OFWs but she recognizes that it is not practical at this point. lost their jobs in several Middle Eastern countries following Jun and Yani’s predicament echoes that of millions of the continued decline in oil prices. other Filipinos overseas as well as the country’s. Among But Philippine authorities appear unperturbed over the developing countries, the Philippines (US$ 29.7 billion) developments and the possible loss of OFW remittances. ranks among the top recipients of remittances after India President Benigno Aquino III even gave an assurance that (US$ 72.2 billion) and China (US$ 63.9 billion), according government will be able to provide gainful employment to the World Bank’s study on international migration issued to displaced Filipino workers. Van der Brink explains the in December 2015. Philippines’ confidence from an economist’s point of view: Remittances from Filipinos overseas have been a “The Filipinos are in demand all over the world basically. consistent and constant source of foreign exchange and And, even as the world goes to shocks, you’ll see that funds since the country began exporting labor in the late Filipinos keep on being hired.” The World Bank official 1970s. In 2014, the US$ 24.3 billion (Php 1.142 trillion) shares Philippine authorities’ confidence that those who lost sent home by expatriate Filipinos represented 8.5 percent their jobs in the Middle East will eventually be rehired either of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for that year. These by another company or in another country. As a result, the remittances eventually find its way into government coffers level of remittances will not be significantly affected in the and the BSP’s foreign reserves. It also fuels the purchasing long run, he says. “We think there will be steady growth. power of beneficiary families and helps keep the economy Maybe not as high as it used to be in the past, but, if we look running. “This is a very good source of investment funds, at the global economic forecast, we project steady growth of purchasing power. And it’s a good stabilizer for the in remittances,” van der Brink assured. He pointed out that macro-economic balances,” said Rogier van den Brink, remittances have been growing at a rate of 5 to 6 percent the lead economist for the World Bank’s Philippine office. the past years, and all indicators show that the trend will These remittance dollars provide a cushion that shields continue. the Philippines from the full impact of economic, political
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news bytes ADB anticorruption office sanctioned 90 entities for integrity violations in 2015
The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Office of Anticorruption and Integrity (OAI) sanctioned 90 companies and individuals for integrity violations in 2015, more than double the 40 sanctioned the previous year, reflecting expanded efforts to encourage staff and partners to report corrupt activities, a new report says. OAI’s 2015 Annual Report notes that 106 entities were also crossdebarred in 2015 in line with a cross-debarment agreement with four other multilateral development banks. This is a slight increase from the 99 firms and individuals cross-debarred in 2014. Complaints received in 2015 climbed 18% year-on-year to a record 285. “Corruption is a direct threat to better lives for millions of poor citizens in our region. It can only be combated by all development stakeholders taking an unequivocal stand that any transgression, no matter how big or small, is unacceptable,” said OAI Head Clare Wee. “OAI stepped up efforts and resources in 2015 to raise awareness on corruption in all its forms, and the rise in complaints reflects increased willingness to report actions that cross the line.” ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region.
Hawaii business delegation eyes PH for market opportunities
The Philippines-United States Business Council, in partnership with SGV & Co., organized an economic briefing for the visiting business delegation from the Filipino and the Chinese Chambers of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) on February 19. On the occasion of their 25th Trade Mission to the Philippines, their objectives were to broaden opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs and its member businesses, strengthen business links between Hawaii and the Philippines, and to assist in the professional growth of the chambers’ members. The delegation was led by Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii President Samuel Acosta and Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii President Eddie Flores Jr., and accompanied by Philippine Consul General in Honolulu, Gina Jamoralin. Forty-five representatives with business and commercial interests in real estate, banking, and food and beverage joined the briefing, eager to learn more about the Philippine economy, its investment potentials, as well as the basics for setting up shop in the country.
Photo from the Department of Labor website, used with permission
Atty. Jose ‘Pepe’ Villanueva III Publisher Ernesto P. Maceda Jr. • Henry J. Schumacher • Katrina Legarda Editorial Board
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Owen Orseno Editor-at-Large
Sonny Ramirez Art Director
Dimitris Lyritzis Sports Editor
Claire Madarang Copy Editor
Johnna Villaviray-Giolagon Diplomatic Editor Kristine Vinas Circulation Manager
Mabel Fortuno Editorial Coordinator
Maribel de Guzman Accounts Manager
Jojo Villanueva IV Distribution Manager
ALL CONTENTS COPYRIGHT 2012, RESERVED for The IMMIGRANT. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in whole or in part, without the express written permission of IMMIGRA PUBLISHING, the publisher of The IMMIGRANT. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of IMMIGRA PUBLISHING.
The IMMIGRANT P.O. Box 4230 Makati City, Philippines For feedback and comments, please email us at theimmigrantnewspaper@gmail.com or visit our website at www.theimmigrant.com.ph
Remittance dollars sent by OFWs provide a cushion that shields the Philippines from the full impact of economic, political or security problems elsewhere in the world.
The IMMIGRANT is in ISSUU. Get your e-copy at http://www.issuu.com/theimmigrantnewspaper (c) 2015-2016
ON THE COVER:
Filipina overseas workers wait for their luggage as they arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Photo from lakwatsangpinay. wordpress.com, used with permission
The benevolent monarch “And the people of the benevolent kingdom prospered in all that they did. All of their needs were met, so much so that they could not imagine a desire. And the people were envied by those living in other kingdoms, the others.” – From the essay “The Benevolent King,” based on 1 Samuel 8:7-22 (Author Unknown)
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e live, it seems, not just in interesting times, but desperate times. Perhaps it’s the onslaught of instant communications that make our world appear ever more chaotic, ever more on the brink. But if you, like me, regularly read various sources of news and information, message boards and social media, comment sections and letters to the editor, listen to bar room chatter and coffee shop chismis (gossip), you can’t help but come to a simple conclusion. On so many fronts our world seems to be in crisis, or so people say. Regardless, they want something done about it, now. People of all sizes and shapes are crying out for bold leadership to dispense with the status quo. They want, it seems, a benevolent king or queen. With the presidential elections coming up in May here in the Philippines, the concept of a benevolent king or queen underlines any and all political discourse. Many Filipinos, long frustrated with endemic corruption, cheating, infighting, lack of meaningful progress delivered by their political elites, often suggest they would readily cast aside their hard-won democracy and hand it over to someone who, with boldness and righteousness, sternness and humility, simply waves a magic wand and sweeps away all that is bad, and restores the world around them for all that is good. Herein now, however, I must offer a caveat. As a foreigner residing in the Philippines for over 20 years, I’ve learned to stay out of political discourse, and for very good reasons. Politics in this country is a rough business. I used to write about Philippine politics for a foreign publication for a few years and it was admittedly a nerve-wracking endeavor. Each and every time I pushed the send button and fired off the story to my editor in Bangkok, I’d suddenly be consumed with overwhelming feelings of panic and nervousness. Did I say the wrong thing about the wrong person? Would they send someone to liquidate me from behind while I was walking down the street to buy cellphone load from the sari-sari store? Eventually I started writing my political rants under a pseudonym. Then I just quit writing about local politics altogether. So don’t look to me to name names and tell you who I think might make a good president or benevolent king or queen of this truly amazing archipelago. That’s a realm solely for Filipinos to wade into. Being a bit of a story teller, however, I am fascinated with a good drama, a compelling storyline whose narrative moves swiftly along, has ups and downs, unexpected plot twists, and yes, a decisive conclusion. Except for the decisive conclusion, that’s Philippine politics in a nutshell. But imagine for a moment that the results of May’s presidential elections did have a very decisive conclusion. And imagine that that winner was so loved and respected by all, so enlightened, so powerful yet so forgiving, so smart and still so humble,
chambers and thrown into a dank jail in the dungeon, never so cute and could even carry a tune, that he or she became to be heard from again. But I’m banking on the fact that that dream deity that Filipinos seem to long for in their your leader is benevolent. So surely I will have a chance to heart of hearts – the benevolent king or queen. What would be the most important issues that we’d want explain my seemingly sarcastic remarks. “Your Majesty, please allow me to explain. Let me this almighty leader to focus on? Well, like I said, as a begin with the Internet. It is one of man’s greatest ever foreigner, my opinion doesn’t really count. But since we inventions and has become an indispensable tool for people are discussing hypotheticals here, I’m going to give it a poor and rich the world over. And Filipinos are some of hearty go. the savviest internet users out there. Yet, the If by some miracle I was called upon to advise this benevolent king or queen “The greatest Philippines has the worst internet speeds of every single country in Asia, save for on which matters to immediately solve, gift you can Afghanistan. Yes, Your Majesty, we only beat I would counsel this wise leader to focus give the Filipino war-torn Afghanistan. Even Mongolia, Nepal on just two issues. I believe these two and Laos have faster Internet speeds than the matters are so vital, so important that people is to Philippines. And not only is the Internet in the the long-term health and vitality of the unleash the Philippines slow as EDSA traffic at rush hour, Filipino people and their hard-won nation Internet.” it is also one of the most expensive in the revolve around these two issues and world, and the most expensive in Asia. only these two. Solve them, and all other “The greatest gift you can give the Filipino people is seemingly intractable problems will correct themselves. to unleash the Internet. The current telecommunications “So Mr. Lerner, you have come here today to advise My companies have a vise-like grip on this most vital resource Excellency on what to do for my people. Speak!” and are literally making billions of dollars, while tens of “Your Majesty, it is my belief that you must immediately millions of Filipinos are being shortchanged and cheated. do two things for the Filipino people. And they are: Free People are frustrated, Your Majesty, as they all have at the Internet, and free the beer.” least two supersonic smart devices in their pockets, but Now I know what you are thinking. If I said this to your queen or king, I’d immediately be hauled out of the royal Turn to page 7
Illustration by Sonny Ramirez
With the general elections looming in May, long-time Manila resident Ted Lerner thinks the Philippines could use a leader that could “free” two things important to Filipinos
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The Immigrant faqs
Wills, inheritance And succession Dean Ma. Soledad Deriquito-Mawis explains how conflicts can be resolved among heirs, especially among foreigner and Filipino successors
S
Q: What law should be applied as to the form of a will?
ay not you know another entirely till you have divided an inheritance with him,” said Swiss poet and writer Johann Kaspar Lavater. Unsurprisingly, conflicts arise among heirs in the settlement and partition of the properties of the decedent or the dead person, especially if it would involve applying foreign and Philippine laws. Thus, laws on succession were instituted “to make possible and effective the orderly enjoyment by the human species of the essential elements of physical life,” as aptly put by former Senator Arturo Tolentino. In this article, we aim to explain the applicability of these laws, particularly where foreign and Philippine decedents and heirs are involved.
A: The law of the place where the will is executed shall govern. It thus follows that, where a Filipino is in a foreign country, he may make a will in accordance with the laws of that country. Such will may be probated in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the will of a foreigner who is abroad is valid in the Philippines if made with the formalities prescribed by the: a. Law of the place of his residence; b. Law of the place where he is a national; or c. Philippine laws.
Q: May joint wills be executed in the Philippines? Illustration by Manix Abrerra
Q: In the Philippines, when do rights to the succession of the decedent’s properties transmit to the heirs or the persons called to the succession? A: The rights to the succession are transmitted to the heirs from the moment of the decedent’s death.
Q: How are successional rights transmitted to the decedent’s heirs?
A: According to Tolentino, successional rights are transmitted when all of the following are present: a. Express will of the testator or the person preparing his will, within the limits prescribed by law or, in the absence of a will, the law that presumes the decedent’s will;
b. Death of the decedent; and c. Acceptance of the inheritance by the heir.
Q: What law should be applied, whether the decedent left a will?
A: With or without the decedent leaving a will, the law of the place where he is a national should apply, with regard to the following matters:
a. Order of succession of the heirs; b. Amount of successional rights to be transmitted to the heirs; and c. Validity of the testamentary provisions, if there were a will. This rule applies, whatever may be the nature of the property or wherever it is situated. Thus, a foreigner cannot validly stipulate in his will that Philippine laws shall govern these matters. Rather, the law of the country where he is a national shall apply.
A: No. A joint will is one made by two or more persons and is signed jointly by them. To be sure, joint wills either for the reciprocal benefit of their testators or for the benefit of a third person are not allowed. This rule applies even when Filipinos execute a joint will in accordance with the foreign country where they may be found. This is the exception to the general rule that the form of wills shall be governed by the law where they may be executed.
Q: What law should be applied in determining the capacity of the heirs to succeed?
A: The law of the nation of the decedent governs the capacity of the heirs to succeed.
Q: What law governs regarding the (a) order of Turn to page 7
Infrastructure: Badly needed S
outheast Asia has made immense development strides over the last 30 years, but much more needs to be achieved, if countries in the region are to reach their full economic potential. The challenge is most apparent in transportation, since ASEAN members still only have a fraction of the roads and railways found in OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries. In fairness, however, the region is a difficult area to develop, encompassing vast areas of land and sea. Extensive mountain ranges, tropical forests and huge rivers bisect many of the member states’ territory. Additionally, and the Philippines just got plenty of it, natural disasters regularly destroy infrastructure. Building infrastructure is therefore a daunting, costly exercise – and too great a task in many instances – for any one country to tackle on its own. Over the next decade, it is estimated that Southeast Asian countries will need to spend up to US$ 60 billion a year to fully address their infrastructure needs. It is also obvious that political stability is essential for infrastructure projects, which typically take many years to develop. Power plants can take easily 4 to 5 years in planning, approval by government agencies and local governments, acceptance by NGOs and the Church, and finally construction. For capital-intensive projects, predictability and consistency of government policies – both national and local – are vital for developers, so that they can calculate returns of investment. Project execution is a big risk, with complex hurdles still to overcome, including issues such as land acquisition, right of way issues, temporary restraining orders, or adverse ordinances of local governments.
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FROM THE DESK
Henry J. Schumacher Vice President for External Affairs, European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP)
More clarity in the legal framework and dispute settlement and a greater role for public private partnerships (PPP) are needed for the better development and implementation of badly needed infrastructure projects. With regret, we note that the new PPP Act, which would have amended the aging BOT (Build Operate Transfer) Law, passed the House of Representatives on third reading but got stuck in the Senate, and will have to wait for the 17th Congress to get active. It will have to be one of the first priorities of the 17th Congress. According to the PPP Center, more than 20 projects are ready to be implemented through bidding processes that do not always work. These projects include roads, rail, transport terminals, airports and seaports, which are all badly needed. More innovative PPPs are also needed, from healthcare to waste-toenergy, from monorail to bridges, from smart cities (in which traffic flows!) to telecommunication with faster broadband speed at a better price, from bulk water to hydropower to irrigation. It is important that the new provisions in the PPP Act pending in the Senate be adopted immediately; it is not the highest bidder (who fills the government coffers) who wins but the lowest bidder who fulfills the technical and other requirements of the bid. With this change, Juan dela Cruz will benefit, because he can use the infrastructure created at a lower cost. In conclusion, we need infrastructure projects that are affordable and implemented in a timely manner, that offer better value for money and benefit the public at large.
Leasing, renting or buying a car?
finance
Terence Hockenhull examines the options you have for getting a new ride in the PH
as he leaves, the car is sent back to the car rental company. Invariably, the cars are rented with a driver, saving the hassle of having a full-time employee sitting around doing nothing Car ownership when he is not needed. One might consider the P2,000 to Owning a vehicle has some significant advantages. It is P3,000 daily rental (much cheaper if weekly or monthly) pleasing to know the car is owned outright and there is no a significant amount to have to pay. However, it sure beats obligation to service a debt. The downside is that you have having a car sitting in a car park unused for weeks on end. invested your money in a rapidly depreciating asset which Now to leasing. In Europe and the USA, leasing a vehicle carries significant running and maintenance costs. Warranty is quite commonplace even for individuals buying a car for will take care of the vehicle for the first few years, accident their own use. In the Philippines, it would appear to be a less damage can be alleviated with insurance. Nonetheless popular option for personal vehicles. However, companies running repairs and maintenance will be a continuing and may be attracted to leasing as a suitable way of financing a steadily escalating cost over the life of the vehicle. vehicle without tying up valuable capital. Generally, a lease How much? Well here’s a sobering thought! In today’s will offer lower monthly payments compared to buying economy, a vehicle costing P1.5 million will likely halve a vehicle. Plus, a much smaller down its value over five years. Run the payment or trade-in is required. numbers for a car that will be Run the numbers The other notable factor about leasing driven 1,500 Km per month and is that the lessor does not own the vehicle you will be looking at P12,500 for a car that will be and will not do so unless ownership depreciation, P7,500 for fuel, P2,500 driven 1,500 Km is transferred at the end of the lease for insurance, a further P2,500 per month and you period. At the end of a lease you will for parking and somewhere in the usually have the option of returning the order of P2,000 for maintenance. will be looking at P27,000 per month; that‘s a lot of P12,500 depreciation, car or buying it as a used car. Since the residual value is something you can Uber trips! Sharing these figures is P7,500 for fuel, P2,500 negotiate at the start of the lease period, unlikely to deter most people from owning a car. Citing convenience for insurance, a further it can be of some advantage to do so. For example, a company may offer their or a host of other reasons, most of P2,500 for parking employees the opportunity of acquiring us desire a vehicle of our own. If and somewhere in the vehicle at the end of the lease period. we can’t pay for it outright, then If the employee will eventually own the financing has to be the way to go! the order of P2,000 vehicle, he or she may take better care of Every showroom in the land for maintenance. it during the lease period and will likely entices customers to buy new P27,000 per month; get to own the car at a fraction of its real cars. Newspapers carry their advertisements offering sweet deals, that‘s a lot of Uber trips! value. However, if you lease and then buy, leasing costs plus purchase price of low down payments or low monthly the used car will often amount to considerably more than an repayments over longer repayment periods. Yet these deals auto-loan financed purchase. may not be all they are cracked up to be. About a year In many countries, leasing companies charge extra ago, one of my employees purchased a vehicle under our at the end of the lease for anything that decreases the company car plan. He placed a 30% down payment and resale value of the car. This may include abnormal wear amortized the car over five years through the dealership. and tear, scratches, minor body damage and excessive A bank would have offered him an auto loan for the same amount with the same repayment schedule but at much more mileage. Since Philippine leasing companies seek to recover the cost of the vehicle from a full leasing period attractive interest rates saving him thousands of pesos over (usually 5 years), they have very little interest in how the loan period. Furthermore, the bank would have allowed many kilometers the car has been driven or the state of the early termination of the loan without major penalties. vehicle at the end of lease period. However, companies offering shorter-term leases are concerned about the Rent-a-car or leasing? value of their assets and will require vehicles to be The company my wife works for rent all their vehicles. regularly serviced and maintained (usually as part of the For vehicles required continually, they negotiate monthly contract), in good repair and below an agreed mileage. rental rates; all other vehicles are rented on an “as required” Of course, a lease determines that you will be locked into basis. They know exactly what their costs are. When an a contract for whatever the term may be. If you decide you executive flies in to the country, a car is available; as soon
Image by stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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ew capital purchases are as vexing as choosing a new car. Consider for a moment that the cost of the average new car is likely to be in the order of one-and-a-half million pesos. Indeed, this is what I have just spent replacing my aging pick-up truck. Believe me when I say that the decision to buy was not an easy one to make. Months of researching internet sites, visiting showrooms, taking test drives, seeking the opinions of my friends and family and lastly disposing of my old vehicle all took a significant amount of time. Throughout this process, the consequences of making the wrong choice were always present and there was a palpable feeling of relief when the car was finally ordered. For me, the question of whether to pay cash or finance the vehicle was never a major consideration. This was not a business decision; the car was for personal use and fortunately, funds were in place to buy it for cash. From a business perspective, tying up capital may not be the best option. Indeed, many companies elect to finance or lease vehicles leaving capital for business expansion or as a reserve for leaner times. However, this was a simple decision for me; why pay interest on a loan when capital was in place to finance the purchase?
want to break a three-year lease after two years, you’ll have to pay the remainder of the lease plus any termination fees in the contract.
Advantages, disadvantages
It seems to me that leasing offers many of the advantages of buying a new car outright with the added bonus that there is no capital expenditure; only a month-to-month leasing fee. Monthly payments are determined by the purchase price of the vehicle amortized over a fixed period with some consideration given for the residual value of the vehicle at the end of the lease period. Lease contracts are negotiable; considerations include the length of the lease, what is actually covered (insurance, maintenance, general repairs and replacement parts), and residual value. There are a few things to beware of when leasing (and these may be factors when dealing with the best of the leasing companies). Last year, our company leased a small sub-compact sedan for the sales team to drive around in. The leasing company has every right to insist on the vehicle being insured; indeed, this is almost always covered in the leasing contract. After a few months, one of our salespeople got into a serious collision with another vehicle, effectively writing the car off. Since this occurred in the provinces, somewhat overzealous local police impounded the vehicle, preventing the insurance company from assessing the damage. We were left with the carcass of a vehicle sitting in a police station compound. The leasing company, (one of the biggest) who were still receiving our monthly payments, made absolutely no effort to intervene, leaving us to pay leasing fees for nearly six months before the car could be recovered. The insurers then wrote the vehicle off; however, the leasing company terminated our lease (the small print allowed them to do this), obtained full settlement from the insurance company, and walked away with 18 months of lease payments plus full payment for the vehicle. The fact is that both buying and leasing have a number of benefits as well as several drawbacks. When you take a closer look at what these two options have to offer, you may find that one option is better suited for your needs than the other. Buying a car with a car loan requires you to put at least some money down on the car with a fixed monthly repayment schedule over three, four or five years. One fully paid, the vehicle is yours to keep without further financial burden. You can drive the vehicle as often as you would like without concern for how many miles you put on the car. If you buy in cash (or arrange your own financing), you can negotiate attractive discounts; it’s one of the most common reasons for buying in this manner. Turn to page 9
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city focus
Metro Cebu has a booming services sector, led by the BPO companies inside Cebu City's IT Park.
Cebu, Ce-boom! Metro Cebu is coming into its own as a megalopolis, but will it keep its Visayan charms? Richard Vidal tells us why it can Island). Danao is chiefly a mining city, while Talisay is a residential city that generates income from small and medium-sized businesses. As a legal and institutional entity, Metro Cebu is still an idea made for planning purposes. The Metropolitan Cebu Development Council (MCDC) is an ad hoc body created by the Regional Development Council (RDC) to draw up plans, programs and projects for an area that accounts for 20 percent of Cebu Province’s land area, yet houses 60 percent of its population. Unlike the body it was patterned after – the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) – the MCDC also doesn’t have the resources to pursue a metrowide growth plan, but that could change soon. A bill proposing the creation
Metro Cebu's skyline, as viewed from the Cebu Strait, is rising every day.
of the Mega Cebu Development Authority was approved at the committee level at the House of Representatives last February, endorsed by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). “The role of metropolitan centers such as Metro Cebu is key in driving economic growth, generating jobs, driving trade and commerce, as well as attracting new investments,” NEDA Assistant Regional Director Dionisio Ledres Jr. said at a presentation in supporting House Bill 6227. A counterpart bill in the Senate, however, has yet to be filed. In the meantime, the consortium of government, private and civil society sector stakeholders behind Metro Cebu will have to make do with their own initiatives for sustained urban growth up to the year 2050. Already the megalopolis is making its own mark abroad apart from Metro Manila, helped by developments such as the recent Cebu-to-Los Angeles direct international route of Philippine Airlines. The area still boasts of a robust tourism and information technology (IT) and business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, which are its main economic drivers. Tourist arrivals have grown in double-digit percentages since 2012, and foreign tourists now account for
Bulalacao bliss This part of Coron in Palawan, as Todd delos Santos reports, reminds travelers of the pristine Boracay of old
Mornings in Sitio Malaroyroy on the island of Bulalacao in Coron are paradise incarnate, as proven by its blue waters and white sands.The best launching area to appreciate Bulalacao and its surrounding islets is the Two Seasons Coron Resort and Spa, which itself has two beaches for its guests to enjoy.
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I
t’s not an easy place to get to, given the country’s imperfect transport infrastructure, but the three or so hours it will take you to get to Bulalacao, an island in Sitio Malaroyroy that’s part of the municipality of Coron in Palawan, are all worth it once you arrive on its pristine shores. Just imagine this scene: the moon rising above the limestone cliffs in the east, as the sun is sinking slowly behind the ragged peaks of Coron’s fabled islets in a fading blaze of orange. If you stay long enough at the Two Seasons Coron Island Resort and Spa, the
Adding a third bridge to link Mactan Island, where the airport is, to the mainland is among Metro Cebu's plans.
40 percent of all arrivals, according to noted economist Gerardo P. Sicat. The IT-BPO industry in Metro Cebu also hosts about a hundred companies that employ nearly 100,000 workers, Sicat added. Not to be missed is Metro Cebu’s burgeoning export manufacturing sector, as its 270 locators in its six export processing and economic zones have earned about $3.6 billion in sales annually. With its services and industry-centric economy, the megalopolis has been the catalyst for the Central Visayas region’s robust 9-percent economic growth rate in five years up to 2014, according to official government figures. Indeed, Metro Cebu is Ce-booming, and should be more than just a concept in the years ahead.
only hotel of worth in Bulalacao, it will be a regular occurrence. The 60 minutes it takes to ride a speedboat from the heart of Coron town to Bulalacao allows the traveler a teasing glimpse of the transparent cobalt waters, green seagrass and white sands that abound in this part of Palawan. On land, cicadas rule the night with their humming. Days are easily spent exploring the steep cliffs and karst rock formations of permian limestones among the islets. Food in these areas is undoubtedly fresh: you could be feasting on soft-shell crabs for lunch one moment, then sipping juice from coconuts right on the beach, among other gustatory delights. Underwater, various shipwrecks of ages past become the playground of myriad fish species. Yes, tourists both local and foreign come more frequently to these parts, but the native Tagbanua tribesmen, the coast guard and the volunteer watchmen of the protected areas make sure potentially damaging activities are held in check. (The Tagbanuas are, by decree, the rightful owners of these islands.) Indeed, Bulalacao reminds seasoned travelers like myself of the paradise that was Boracay many years ago, before its threemile stretch of the softest powder-white sand became a crowded strip of roasting bodies packed shoulder-to-shoulder. In those days, Boracay was a retreat from the city—an expanse of stillness, fireflies flitting among the mangroves, tall palms dancing in the wind. Today, Bulalacao in Coron has taken than mantle – a place truly remote and extra special. It is quiet and dreamy, and its beaches immaculately clean. Truly worth a three-hour trip.
Photos courtesy Two Seasons Resort.
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ebu is many things to many people, but Metro Cebu as a concept is just catching on. Comprised of Cebu City as well as it neighboring cities Mandaue, LapuLapu, Danao, Talisay, Naga, and Carcar and the towns of Consolacion, Liloan, Compostela, Cordova, Minglanilla, and San Fernando, this megalopolis is almost twice the size of Metro Manila and is home to about four million people. Spanning 1,163 square kilometers, Metro Cebu houses the provincial capital, the central business district, major educational institutions and the international port (all located in Cebu City), major industrial companies and factories (in Mandaue), and the international airport and the export processing zone (in Lapu-Lapu’s Mactan
The boon and bane of social media Our Social Media Editor, Valerie Joy Deveza, discusses how the right social network can propel – or put down – your business Choosing the right social media network
From start-ups to large-scale businesses, more companies are discovering and harnessing the power of the Internet to connect with potential customers online. Majority of them are leaning toward social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – but why? Getting a domain and setting up your website is not enough to establish a strong online presence and have a wider audience reach. Either through free or paid advertising options, social media platforms bridge the gap of your products or services to your prospective consumers. However, it is wise to choose the right social media network so you can effectively represent or market the nature of your company.
Debuting as a simple website for college students and becoming a worldwide social media platform, Facebook has indeed come a long way. It is the most popular and the biggest social media network, with more than 1 billion active users to date. Aside from its wide audience, Facebook is a favorite among businesses because it is convenient to use. You can share not only photos and videos, but also post links going to a certain page of your website. Another great thing about Facebook is that you can easily monitor your page.
In addition to giving your customers updates, Twitter is also a great platform to follow your customer’s feedback – negative or positive. By simply hitting the reply button, you can quickly address all these concerns.
SOCIAL MEDIA Valerie Joy Deveza The Immigrant Social Media Editor
Twitter is another social media giant you should look into. Just like Facebook, you can share photos, videos, and links, and even conduct polls and send direct messages. The beauty of Twitter is its 140-character limit. For some it is a deal breaker, but the limitation on each post can entice curiosity and thus encourage clicks.
The benevolent...
problem with the Internet. In many ways, the beer situation in this country is the From page 3 perfect metaphor for all that ails this great land. Solve this, and the people will really they can’t use them to their full potential. understand that you are dead serious about And they are being fleeced for this awful bettering their lives. service. “Now I know that San Miguel beer is “You need to immediately smash this an iconic Filipino brand. Indeed, many cartel and provide your people, all of of my fondest memories in over 20 years your people especially the poor masses, of living in the Philippines have occurred with blazing fast Internet speeds. If with a cold brown bottle of San Miguel you do this, they will immediately save beer in my hand bundles of pesos because (actually with many, they can now use free apps “...Please, I many San Miguels in to message and call instead beg you, like my hand, but that’s of buying overpriced load. the Internet, to another story.)” They will create and conduct “So what is the business faster and better, smash up the problem with that Mr. they will find and create beer monopoly Lerner? Good beer, good employment, engage in long in this country times. I’m quite busy and distance learning, have better communications with their and throw open don’t have much time.” “Of course Your loved ones, and enjoy a new the refrigerator Majesty. Well, the world of entertainment right doors to as wide problem is that San at their fingertips. You simply Miguel controls 95 can’t lose, Your Majesty. a selection of of the beer Unleash the Internet, offer brews as possible. percent market. And, well, how blazing speeds, lower its My sanity, your do I say this? When price, and the people will be very happy.” peoples’ sanity, one company controls percent of the beer “That is wise counsel, Mr. depends on it!” 95 market, that means that Lerner. We will begin this you have a really, really quest to unleash the Internet, lousy beer drinking market! as you say, on Monday morning. Now, “We all know, Your Majesty, how regarding your second point, freeing the beer. That seems a bit flippant for a serious important good beer is to good living. And all over the world consumers have forum such as this. I’m very busy and lots of choice as to which beers they want don’t have time to joke around.” to consume with friends and family. This “I apologize Your Majesty, but actually freedom of choice means more competition I am very serious about this. Please allow and thus better quality beer. Better beer me a minute to explain myself. The beer means happier people, less nasty hangovers, situation in the Philippines is similar to the
If your business is in the industry of arts and design, Instagram is the ideal platform for you. Unlike Twitter or Facebook, you won’t be able to text-type status updates on Instagram. Instead, you can only share two types of content – photos and videos. Plus, all updates are done via mobile. You can either upload an image or video from your phone’s gallery, or you can take a new one. There are great selections of filters to add drama or life to your photo. Using hashtags, like Twitter, on your posts can help other users discover your content. You can put as much as 30 hashtags in one post, but do remember that overdoing it can get you attention that doesn’t convert. Stick to relevant and interesting hashtags so you can gain genuine exposure.
The challenges
Despite the possibilities of reaching a wider audience on social media networks, businesses should not solely rely on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for their online marking efforts. These social media platforms should only be supplementary to your overall online effort. Consider it as a helping hand to fill your gaps of information dissemination. Why? There are limitations for each of these social media. Whether it’s a character limit or the absence of text in status posts or updates, marketing via social media may not be enough to relay all the information that you want to share to your consumers. To top it all off, you will need an effective social media manager who can actually create “buzz” for your account. You will also need high-quality content to encourage likes, shares and retweets.
and a more productive populace. Your Majesty, I personally can no longer take the lack of choice in the stagnant Philippine beer market. Please, I beg you, like the Internet, to smash up the beer monopoly in this country and throw open the refrigerator doors to as wide a selection of brews as possible. My sanity, your peoples’ sanity, depends on it!” “Mr. Lerner, please calm down. Now, when I assumed this throne, never in my wildest imagination did I think I would ever hear such a thing. Most of my subjects are meek and just accept whatever comes their way in life. But what you are proposing is sheer genius. I will immediately do as you say. I will free the Internet and I will free the beer. The Philippines will become the envy of our neighbors, who will no longer sneer at us as being parochial and beholden to vested interests. And my people will be happy and prosperous. “You are wise, Mr. Lerner. Now go, and prepare ye to have the fastest internet in Asia at the cheapest prices, and your choice of dozens of fresh brewed beers to enjoy it all with.” “The pleasure is all mine, Your Majesty. But it is you who is the wise and benevolent one. I am but a mere vessel for a cowed and long-suffering populace. And now I will bid you adieu (bowing). Long live the Philippines! And long live the great monarch of the Philippine archipelago!” Ted Lerner is the author of the classic book Hey,Joe—a slice of the city, an American in Manila, as well as a book of Asian travel essays, The Traveler and the Gate Checkers. He also works in professional boxing as a writer and ring announcer, and in professional billiards as a writer and TV commentator. He has lived in the Philippines for 20 years.
Wills... From page 4
succession of heirs; (b) amount of successional rights; (c) validity of provisions of a will; and (d) capacity to succeed of the heirs, where the decedent is a national of one country and a domicile of another?
A: As a general rule, the law of the nation of the decedent prevails. This rule does not apply, however, where the law of the nation of the decedent and the law of his domicile at the time of his death are different. For instance, the law of the decedent’s nation prescribes that the law of his domicile at the time of his death. But, the latter law prescribes that the law of his nation should apply instead. To prevent the “endless chain of references” this situation creates, the renvoi doctrine was developed. Under this rule, courts should consider the internal law of the foreign country and conflictof-laws rules in resolving the situation brought before them. Thus, where, as earlier said, the law of the decedent’s domicile prescribes that the law of his nation should apply, courts should refer to the latter law. Dean Ma. Soledad Deriquito-Mawis is the dean of the Lyceum of the Philippines UniversityCollege of Law and the incumbent president of the Philippine Association of Law School Deans. She is also one of the partners of Gatchalian Castro & Mawis Law Offices. Disclaimer: The FAQs above are the sole opinion of the writer/s and should not constitute as legal opinion or advice. – The IMMIGRANT
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good company
Say G’Day
Australia and the Philippines celebrate 70 years of relations with exhibits at SM malls, Maurice Arcache reports
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All photos courtesy of SM Public Relations
Minister Counsellor and Senior Trade Commissioner of Australian Government Australian Trade Commission Anthony Weymouth and wife Kerrie.
(L-R) Peter Chan, ANZ Philippines Chief Executive Officer, Natasha Monks, Australian Embassy Trade Commissioner, Honeybee Hubahib, Qantas Airways General Manager, and Rosanne Suarez, Telstra Philippines General Manager
Ms. Evie Costa, Honorary Consul of Togo
all-goers recently had the rare opportunity to get to know more about the sights, sounds, history, movies, music, education, food, and shopping Down Under during the recent Celebrate Australia: Say G’Day at SM exhibition at SM Aura Premier Atrium. A joint project of the Australian Embassy and SM, the exhibit was held in time to commemorate the 70th year of diplomatic relationship between Australia and the Philippines. Australia first opened its first Consulate General in Manila on May 22, 1946, and the event highlighted the warm relations between the two countries with an exhibit of a timeline of the first 70 years, as well as milestones in bilateral relations. No less than the new Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency Amanda Gorely, attended the launch together with embassy officials including Minister Counsellor and Senior Trade Commissioner Anthony Weymouth, First Secretary Ms. Felicity Lee, Political and Public Affairs Counsellor Richard Rodgers, and Economic Counsellor Daniel Featherston. Also present were National Historical Commission of the Philippines Executive Director Vic Badoy, Qantas Airways General
Richard Rogers, Australian Felicity Lee, Embassy Political and Public Australian Embassy Affairs Counsellor First Secretary
Manager Honeybee Hubahib, musician Jim Paredes and wife Lydia. SM officials led by SM Senior Vice President for Marketing Millie Dizon and SM Supermalls AVP for Operations Bernice Baculi joined them. The exhibition included a collection of breathtaking photographs showcasing iconic Australian tourist attractions like Sydney Opera House; Twelve Apostles, in Victoria; Cradle Mountain in Tasmania; Wave Rock in Western Australia, and many more. It also included an exhibit of The Philippines and Australia: The First Seventy Years, featuring a timeline of captured photographs of significant moments in the shared history between Australia and the Philippines. The photographic exhibition also features story of the relationship and connections between the two countries which highlights historical and strong people-topeople links and influences in both cultures. It was also interesting to see how Australia showcased their education, science and innovation, and lifestyle in the exhibit. These included three-dimensional trivial materials and interactive displays and equipment. Complementing the exhibit is a trade and sampling of both the leading and the emerging Australian brands in our country: Cotton On, Ever New, Rip Curl, Roxy,
Ms. Fortune Musician Jim Ledesma, Honorary Paredes and wife Consul of Monaco Lydia
Fil-Am doctor leads 4 cardiologists from New Jersey in performing free angioplasty procedures for indigent Pinoys
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Dr. Kurt Glenn Jacoba and Dr. Joven Dungo (second and third from left) are flanked by fellow cardiologists at the Philippine Heart Center during "Operasyon Puso." Dr. Michael Benz (upper right) supervises an angioplasty at the Heart Center operating room, and Dr. Dungo later visits a recovering patient, one of the 50 beneficiaries of the medical mission.
New Jersey since 1982. He is currently affiliated with CarePoint Health Systems, holding clinics at both Christ Hospital and Hoboken University Hospital in Jersey City and Bayonne Medical Center in Bayonne, New Jersey, and Barnabas Health Systems through the Jersey City Medical Center. Williams got his medical degree from Temple University, where he also served as Chief Cardiology Fellow from 2004 to 2005. He is the current Director for Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory and Peripheral Vascular Interventions at Christ Hospital and also holds clinics at Jersey City Medical
Quiksilver, Globe Skate Brand, BYS, Lol, Scanasia, Silverwave. There was also a booth of Australian Wine and of course, Flat White Coffee, which originated in Australia from Vittoria Café. After the Aura run, the Celebrate Australia: Say G’Day at SM exhibition will be touring SM’s Premier Malls: SM City Cebu in March, SM City Davao in April, and SM North EDSA in May. A mall promotion is incorporated with the tour on the following malls, giving shoppers a chance to win SM gift certificates with Australian wine and cheese packages, and a trip to Melbourne, Australia with tour packages via Qantas Airways.
Bernice Baculi, Assistant Vice President for Operations of SM Premier 4 Malls, welcomes guests to the exhibit.
Filipinos who studied in Australia’s superb schools include alumni: (2nd from left) TV 5’s Martin Andanar and (4th from left) Director Vic Badoy, National Historical Commission of the Philippines
Hearts of service
our cardiologists from New Jersey, led by a Filipino-American, performed free angioplasty procedures to 50 indigent patients from February 21 to 26 at the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City. Dubbed “Operasyon Puso,” the nonprofit humanitarian and medical mission was sponsored by JErieCare Rainbow Foundation (JERF) in the Philippines, headed by its President and CEO Dr. Joven Dungo. Dr. Dungo joined fellow New Jersey cardiologists Dr. Michael Benz, Dr. Rashaan Williams, and Dr. David DoBesh in performing the angioplasties at the Heart Center under the supervision of Dr. Glenn Kurt Jacoba and Dr. Manuel Chua Chiaco. These doctors are well-trained in the United States in invasive and non-invasive heart procedures as well as interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. The group’s objective, according to Dungo, is “to provide access to advanced world-class treatment in heart diseases to our indigent countrymen in the Philippines. We will be providing free cardiac services and pro-bono stents, pacemakers, defibrillators and catheters.” Dungo received his medical degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, and has practiced Internal Medicine in
HE Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely (middle) with NHCP Director Vic Badoy (left) and Millie F. Dizon, SM Senior Vice-President of Marketing Communications (right)
Center, Newark-Beth Israel Medical Center, and Bayonne Medical Center. Dr. Jacoba is the current Department Chairman for Internal Medicine of the Quirino Memorial Medical Center, the Division Chief for Clinical Cardiology at the Philippine Heart Center since 2006, and the Heart Station Head and Section Chief of Cardiology at the De Los Santos Medical Center since 1992. For inquiries on JErieCare’s medical missions, you may coordinate with Ms. Maribel de Guzman, JERF’s Philippine liaison officer, at phone numbers (02) 2617082, (0922) 293-7710 and (0937) 3725010. – Owen Orseno
Daniel Featherston, Australian Embassy Economic Counsellor, and son Hugh listen to the playlist of Australian hit songs
banking
Leasing, renting... From page 5
Fend off foreclosure
The buyer’s choice
Atty. Cecilia M. Cabatit, a legal officer of a universal bank, gives us the lowdown about foreclosure of real estate mortgage
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et’s say you, a foreigner, took out a loan from a Philippine bank in order to acquire a condominium unit. You executed a Real Estate Mortgage to secure the payment of the loan. Unfortunately, you failed to pay your amortizations as required, so the loan has become past due. You receive a demand letter from the bank asking you to pay the past due amortizations, plus interest and penalties within a few days. This matter is not to be taken lightly. If you fail to pay, the bank will send you a final demand letter to pay the entire outstanding balance. If you are still unable to pay, the bank will file a Petition for Extrajudicial Foreclosure of Mortgage with the court alleging that you executed a Real Estate Mortgage to secure your loan, which is now past due. Your property will be foreclosed (that is, sold to the highest bidder at an auction sale). In most auction sales, the bank is the highest bidder. A Certificate of Sale will be issued by the judge and the bank will cause the annotation of the said Certificate of Sale on the Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT). All is not lost at this point. You have the right to redeem your property within one (1) year after the
annotation of the Certificate of Sale. You would need to pay the bank the redemption price (the amount due under the mortgage contract with interest at the rate specified in the contract, plus all the costs and expenses incurred by the bank). It is possible to negotiate a lower redemption price, but that would depend entirely on the bank. Note that the redemption period is extendible at the option of the bank. But if the bank refuses to extend it and If you somehow fail to redeem your property within the oneyear period, the bank will now have the right to: 1) consolidate its title over the property (meaning the CCT in your name will be cancelled and a new one in the name of the bank will be issued); and 2) obtain possession Image by nuttakit at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Of course there are a few drawbacks associated with buying a car outright. The Philippines is somewhat unique in as much as the depreciated value of vehicles remains particularly high. For example, my six-yearold Ford in very good condition (but with very high mileage) sold for well over 50 percent of the acquisition price. Nonetheless, one still has to consider the capital tied up in the purchase; an amount not spread over 72 months but paid up front. At the end of the lease term, you do not have to worry about trading in your car in or selling it. You simply sign it back over to the lessee and lease a new vehicle. However, you are paying for the use of the vehicle for the first 2 or 3 years of its life; the time when the car depreciates the most. Further, understand that a lease is like signing a rental agreement. You can’t just walk away from it; there are penalties if you do so. If you purchase a vehicle outright, you can always sell it if you don’t want it anymore. It’s your choice; at the end of the day, much depends on who is buying the vehicle. Corporations will always be attracted to leases because they do not have to invest capital. And the reality is that most leasing companies structure their leases to address the requirements of companies rather than individuals. Personal buyers will tend to favor a cash purchase or an auto loan simply because acquisition of the vehicle is quick and from day one (albeit that the loan or finance company issues a chattel mortgage) ownership of the car rests with the purchaser, not a leasing company, bank or financial institution.
over the condominium unit. It’s now game over for you. DISCLAIMER: The article above is the sole opinion of the writer/s and should not constitute as legal opinion or advice. –The IMMIGRANT
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art culture
Nuances of light Mav Rufino’s 18th solo exhibit of mixed media at Peninsula Manila created ripples of excitement in the local art community
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he 18th solo exhibit of mixed media by Filipino artist and writer Maria Victoria Rufino created a ripple of excitement among art and literary circles and a growing audience of Filipinos and expats who crave creative nourishment. Entitled “Luminescence – Dreamscapes 2016,” the exhibition on February 2 was presented by The Peninsula Manila, starting with opening cocktails at The Gallery. It ran from February 3 to 7, with all proceeds benefitting the Child Protection Network Foundation. Guests of honor were three National Artists: Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Virgilio S. Almario, and F. Sionil Jose. Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and his wife Gretchen were also present. Mav Rufino is a multifaceted artist who has mounted successful exhibitions of her paintings and mixed media work in the Philippines and abroad. She has authored several books and produced dinner theater, plays and musical concerts in Manila and various cities in the United States, Italy and Hong Kong. Of the exhibit, Rufino said: “My dreamscapes reflect a fascination with the nuances of light radiant and luminous in nature. Impressions of timeless vistas
blend with memories of the future and déjà vu images of the past.” “It took more than four years to put this show together,” she told the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s George Sison, who particularly like her painted screen dividers that made one feel “like they were entrances to a different dimension of experience.” Prof. Ruben D.F. Defeo of the College of Fine Arts of the University of the Philippines, who was curator in a previous exhibition of Rufino, said the artist “startles us with her dreamscape paintings… and shows the interconnectivity of memories with ideas, how one particular dream can lead to another no matter how fragmented or disparate they are in terms of time and space, origin and place.” The Peninsula Gallery was filled to the brim with friends and supporters headed by Miguel Realmonte, Peninsula General Manager Mark Choon, Ambassador Isabel Wilson, Ambassador Ching Escaler, Linda Ley, Leo Valdez, Dr. Randy Francisco, and Tess Schoefer, among others. Rufino is a Director of Alliance Francaise de Manille and executive producer of Maverick Productions. She is a regular columnist of BusinessWorld and her essays,
articles and profiles in several books have won awards from the Manila Critics Circle and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. She also has a Gawad CCP for best television special from the Cultural Center of the Philippines. She graduated with honors from Marymount Manhattan College, New York with a degree in Theater Arts and English Literature. She took up art and photography in Europe and New York.
sports
‘The Kraken’ unleashed T
he San Miguel Beermen are dominating the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and, once again, they have the “Kraken” to thank for it. June Mar Fajardo is the future of basketball in the Philippines, and his rise -ever since he burst onto the scene during the 2012-13 season as a rookie fresh out of the University of Cebu -- has been nothing short of miraculous, claiming MVP awards and accolades with double-double performances on such a regular basis that it is now, quite simply, expected of him. His ability is phenomenal and he’s displaying the kind of big man domination not seen on these shores since Carlos “The Big Difference” Loyzaga ruled the hard court half a century ago. At 6-foot-11, with a body which is not just stretched tall but actually proportionally huge, he towers over the rest of the field, and, when you combine his size with fleet-footed mobility, nifty footwork, uncanny timing, a cache of post moves and an impeccable shooting touch, he becomes unplayable in and around the shaded area.
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He regularly fights through doubleand triple-team defenses using a lethal combination of upper body strength, speed and finesse to either grab an and-one play or spot the free man and release with deadly accuracy a feathery touch time and again. Unlike most big men, Fajardo has no problem running the court and working hard to pitch in on transition defense. He can even make free throws when needed and, while his mere presence stymies and discourages dribble-drive penetrations, he is also now showing huge improvement on the shot-swatting aspect of his game. When you add that to the fact that he has an unquestionable work ethic and shows a humble and unerring willingness to learn, it is frightening to think how far he can go. Indeed, we saw a glimpse of his potential on a global scale at the last FIBA World Championships in Spain when, in the only game the Gilas Pilipinas won (against Senegal), when he was allowed to play enough minutes, he performed just short of a double-double with 15 points and 9 rebounds, as well as 2 assists and 2 steals.
In college, June Mar won three Cebu Sports Athletic Foundation (CESAFI) MVP awards and mythical team selections. In the PBA, he has been MVP in the last two seasons (2013-14 and 2014-15) apart from earning three PBA Best Player of the Conference awards, a PBA Most Improved Player award (2014), two PBA First Team selections (2014-2015) and one Second Team (2013, his rookie year) citation, plus two PBA All-Star Team selections and three PBA championships. All this in only three years as a professional, and, if he stays fit and healthy, Fajardo is well on the way to becoming
Philippine basketball’s greatest player ever. “He’s strong, he’s got the height, he can shoot and he can run. To all the players who will try to stop him, look out,” says Petron center Dorian Peña. “How many Filipino players are 6-foot-10, can shoot, can run and have a strong body? If several people believe Japeth Aguilar has a chance of making it to the NBA, I think June Mar has a better chance of making it to the big league.” The future of basketball in this country lies at the feet and hands of the phenomenon known to one and all as the “Kraken.” Watch this space.
Photo courtesy of pba-online.net
June Mar Fajardo is that rare combination of size and skill in the PBA, and Lem Lyritzis has no doubt he is the future of PH basketball